The Jaguars returned to 2018 in the first preseason game

The Jaguars played their first preseason game of the season with 32 players on the roster.

Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone and his staff made the somewhat surprising decision to play only second, third, and fourth string players in their first preseason game. The result was predictable.

The Jaguars looked pathetic against the “real” Baltimore Ravens team. I understand the fear of injuries and perhaps the need to introduce the “real” Jaguars on their home field next week., however, a small market team with a limited fan base and poor national exposure need to make at least an attempt to look good on national TV.

Back to the game.

Quarter number one – Gardner Minshew was the starter at quarterback and was less than impressive.  His arm strength was questionable but he is a rookie. Quenton Meeks made a nice tackle on one play and missed a tackle on another play. The Jaguars back up defense looked decent against the Ravens starters.

Keelan Cole, a player on the bubble to make the roster, made an impressive kick return for a touchdown. It was called back for a penalty but still was a bright spot.  Josh Allen made a great play, Will Richardson was finally on the field after missing all of last season, and our rookie runner Ryquell Armstead showed his run hard run angry personality.

Quarter number two – There was not much positive to say about the Black and Teal team.  The field position limited the offensive play calling,  the team had six penalties in the first half.  The defense looked OK again and the rest of the team channeled 2018.

Quarter three and four – Tanner Lee replaced Minshew at quarterback and looked totally lost against the backup defense for the Ravens. He threw an interception that was returned for a touchdown. Alex McGough replaced Lee and had some zip on his throws.

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Unfortunately, he also threw an interception.

Our hometown announcer, Brian Sexton, commented that this team looked like the 2018 team. The play by play announcer Leon  Searcy, number 14 on the all-time best Jaguars list, noted that “the young guys got the opportunity and they need to take advantage of it.” He mentioned Alfred Blue, Allen, and C.J. Reavis as having good games.

What did we learn? – First, we learned what we already knew… preseason games are a joke. Next, we realized that the Jaguars have a potential nightmare at back-up quarterback.

Also, we saw some unimpressive stats… eight first downs, 10 penalties, and 112 total yards. Finally, we realized that our coaching staff will try anything to avoid injuries.

My final opinion is that our starters will play at least a quarter next week and this game will be totally forgotten.